Brett Veach and the Chiefs face a challenging situation after the 2024 season, with key players like Nick Bolton, Creed Humphrey, and Trey Smith due for contract extensions, and Trent McDuffie and George Karlaftis nearing their own negotiations.
Historically, under Veach’s leadership, the Chiefs have often opted to let secondary and offensive line players leave rather than offering large contracts. The upcoming decisions will significantly shape the next five years of Kansas City football, and Veach’s past actions indicate that several important players might not be re-signed.
Although I believe the organization will ultimately retain a rising star like Trent McDuffie, it’s difficult to overlook Veach’s recent history.
Brett Veach’s Track Record Suggests Creed Humphrey and Trent McDuffie Could Walk
Trent McDuffie has 2 sacks, 2 QB hits, 2 solo tackles, 1 forced fumble and 1 tackle for loss through the first half 🔥#ChiefsKingdom
(📹 @NFL)
— Let’s Chat Chiefs (@LetsChatChiefs) November 21, 2023
Reviewing Veach’s tenure as head of the front office, Kansas City opted not to re-sign key players such as Mitch Morse, Orlando Brown Jr., Tyrann Mathieu, Charvarius Ward, and now L’Jarius Sneed. While the team did sign Joe Thuney to a large free agency contract, they have yet to extend one of their own offensive linemen significantly.
Creed Humphrey, an All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler, will likely demand one of the NFL’s highest contracts at his position. Trent McDuffie, who became a First-Team All-Pro last season, is now the face of the secondary.
Trey Smith will also need a substantial contract, making it difficult for the Chiefs to retain everyone. This is a consequence of consistently excellent drafts; when most of your draft picks turn into stars, they eventually require large contracts.
Veach has excelled at backfilling positions in anticipation of free agency, finding talents like Sneed, Smith, Jaylen Watson, and Joshua Williams when new starters were needed.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, Kansas City selected three offensive linemen, potentially preparing for the eventual departures of Humphrey, Smith, or Thuney. The next offseason will present a critical juncture for the organization. Hopefully, they will be celebrating a third consecutive Super Bowl win as they face these challenging decisions.
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